TARUN KHANNA, who plays Lord Shiva in Dangal TV’s Devi Aadi Parashakti, speaks with MUSBA HASHMI about what made him say yes to the role, challenges and how he is keeping busy during the lockdown
This is the eighth time you are playing Lord Shiva. What attracts you to the role?
The main reason for me to say yes to Devi — Aadi Parashakti was the fact that yet again I got an opportunity to essay the role of lord Shiva. I have portrayed the character numerous times but those stories were focused on other mythological characters. However, in this show, I finally got a chance to be the lead opposite the central character which is essayed by Rati Pandey.
Does this pose any challenges?
Yes, it is very challenging to play the same role again and again. I make it more interesting by adding something more to the character. And to keep adding on, I read as much as possible from wherever I can on Mahadev. It gives me inspiration.
From Kabhi Aaye Na Judaai to Devi Aadi Parashakti, how has the journey been?
It has been one roller coaster of a journey. One moment I am at the top then again it goes down and everything seems like a big struggle. I feel I haven’t achieved even 10 per cent of what I have in my mind. I still feel like a newcomer.
You have played varied roles. How did that transition happen?
When I started out, I was offered a lot of negative characters and I took them to run my kitchen. Then I found out that I was enjoying those roles. But the game changer was when I played king Vikramaditya in Vikram Aur Betal on Colors. After that people started noticing me. They thought that I had the physique and language skills to play historical and mythological characters. I was then offered the role of Ravan in Devo Ke Dev Mahadev which established me in this genre.
A role that you would say no to.
I would never want to portray a negative character wherein I have to physically torture children or women
Was acting always on your cards?
No, acting wasn’t always on my mind. When I started as a model, I always dreamt of earning enough to buy a car. In the bargain, I managed a few extra things too.
Was there a moment when you felt like quitting?
There was a phase when I wasn’t getting the kind of roles or rather any roles that I wanted. But I didn’t know anything else, so I just waited for an opportunity. And God has been very kind to bless me with tremendous opportunities.
What are your upcoming projects?
Currently, I am doing Devi Adi Parashakti on Dangal TV. It’s the journey of the goddess in all her avataars.
What is keeping you busy during the lockdown?
I am watching performances of my fellow industry friends because that is the best way to learn and grow. To keep myself fit, I am working out regularly and ensuring that I spend good quality time with my family.
